The publication is reproduced in full below:
CONGRATULATING GARY COHEN ON HIS RETIREMENT
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HON. JOHN GARAMENDI
of california
in the house of representatives
Thursday, December 9, 2021
Mr. GARAMENDI. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate Gary Cohen of Oakland, California, on occasion of his retirement from Blue Shield of California following a distinguished career as an attorney, public servant, advocate, mentor and leader committed to improving the health and well-being of millions of Americans.
Gary served the House honorably as my Chief of Staff in 2010 before helping lead the Obama Administration's implementation of the Affordable Care Act as the Director of the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO) where he oversaw implementation of regulations that established critical consumer protections that directly impacted the lives of millions of Americans.
As General Counsel to Covered California, California's health benefit marketplace--and Deputy Commissioner General Counsel during my tenure as California's Insurance Commissioner--Gary served as a passionate voice for consumers and worked tirelessly to improve Californians' access to affordable and comprehensive insurance coverage. As General Counsel for California's Public Utilities Commission, Gary developed a legal strategy that put consumers first amidst the state's unprecedented energy crisis.
In private practice, and following his government service, Gary pushed major California companies, including Blue Shield, to act instead of stand on the sidelines on making health coverage more affordable for members, empowering patients with better access to health data, and addressing the Bay Area's homelessness crisis.
Gary's experiences as a patient led him to push for a delivery system that is simplified, affordable and more patient friendly. He served as a trusted, experienced advisor to the California delegation on health care issues, and I have no doubt he will continue to do so following his retirement on the issues that matter.
In government and the private sector, Gary led with compassion and empathy. Gary inspired his staff to be passionate, fearless and to act consistent with their values in standing for what is right, no matter how challenging the politics or environment.
Gary is also a loving husband to his lifetime love Liz, and an attentive father and grandfather. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our appreciation and best wishes to Gary and his family following an outstanding and meaningful career.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 213
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